alineas

Alineas are subparagraphs or items within a larger paragraph in legal and formal documents. The term, used in Spanish and Portuguese drafting, denotes a subdivision of a provision to organize content more clearly by breaking down obligations, rights, or conditions into discrete points. Alineas are typically indicated by a letter or numeral, such as alínea a), alínea b), or (i), (ii).

Function and usage: Alineas help clarify the scope of a rule, specify exceptions, or lay out separate conditions without creating a single, long sentence. They also facilitate cross-referencing to other parts of the text. In many jurisdictions, a main paragraph may be divided into several alíneas to improve precision and enforceability.

Language and jurisdiction: The concept is common in Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking countries, including Spain and Portugal, as well as in legal drafting influenced by those traditions. While the structure is familiar to lawyers and public officials, the exact notation and hierarchy can vary by country and document type. In English-language texts, the equivalent concept is usually called a subparagraph or clause.

Relation to other units: Alineas sit below the level of a paragraph (párrafo) and above the level of individual sentences; they are often grouped to form a complete provision within articles, laws, contracts, or regulations.

Examples: A contract might state: “La presente garantía cubre: alínea a) daños directos; alínea b) interrupciones de servicio; alínea c) costos de reemplazo.” See also: paragraph, clause, subparagraph, enumeration.